Just received the new mortising chisels that Karson put me on to (thanks again for the tip). I saw that they have what looks like a finish sprayed or dipped on them, will that come off after first use, or does it need to be removed, and if so, with what? That leads me to a bigger question, what does everyone else use to clean off the lubricants/sealers/gook (technical term) that manufacturers put on metal tools to protect them for shipping?

I’ve heard of the kerosene and mineral spirits, but never heard of WD40. I would think that it might leave a residue that could get on the wood and possibly cause problems come time for finishing, or is this something that is just from the worrying side of me? Thanks for all the responses.

Something that was also mentioned was keeping metal parts away from the “rust monster”. What does everyone use. I’ve always been roped into buying some type of aerosol way spray (TopCote I think is what it is called) or using some type of oil for chisels. Is there a cheaper alternative than $15/can for keeping the table saw slick and free from rust?

Rick, if you are worried about the WD-40 residue (I was too the first time I used it on my tablesaw), wipe it down or even dip the tool like a chisel in denatured alcohol. This is also good for the cleaning process but WD-40 works better.

I was sold a can of TopCote when I bought my saw but it doesn’t really keep the monster away. Waxing is much better, cheaper and the can goes a long way, IMHO. I have a can of Minwax and others swear by Renaissance.

I always clean off shipping “stuff” with wd 40 or mineral spirits. Then I wipe it down with Rubbing alcohol (cheap!) to remove all the oil residue. For protection I prefer to use Topsaver from Empire mfg. It sprays on, removes rust and protects from rust. Works great. I’m sure you can find it @ any Rockler, Highland Hdware, woodcraft etc.